Wizz Air’s ‘All You Can Fly’ Subscription Divides Travelers: Is It Worth the Hype?

Wizz Air’s new “All You Can Fly” subscription, offering unlimited flights for an annual fee of €499 (£426), has sparked mixed reactions among passengers. While some praise the deal for its potential savings on trips to destinations like the Maldives, others have raised concerns about the airline’s service history and the fine print of the offer.

The budget airline’s new scheme, launched in September, promises frequent flyers the opportunity to save money, visit family more often, and explore lesser-known destinations. Wizz Air claims that the offer was so popular it sold out in most markets within 24 hours. However, some customers are wary of the limitations, including the requirement to book flights only three days in advance, a €10 fee per flight, and restrictions on luggage.

Critics argue that the deal may not be as cost-effective as it appears. Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, advises potential subscribers to consider additional costs such as booking fees, seat selection, and luggage charges, which can quickly add up. He also questioned the environmental impact of promoting unlimited flights, especially from an airline that markets itself as Europe’s “greenest.”

Wizz Air has faced challenges recently, including being named the worst airline for UK flight delays for the third consecutive year and being ordered to pay an extra £1.2 million in compensation to customers earlier this year. Despite these setbacks, the airline insists it is working on improvements, including a £90 million investment in operations and customer service.

Some travelers are excited about the new offer. Talie Delemere, a frequent flyer who lives near Luton Airport, has already signed up. She values the flexibility of the subscription and finds Wizz Air’s service comparable to other budget airlines.

However, not all passengers share her enthusiasm. James Glenton from York is still waiting for compensation after a Wizz Air flight cancellation disrupted his holiday plans last year. Similarly, Mark Shatliff from Reading had a frustrating experience with a delayed Wizz Air flight, leading him to incur additional costs. Both travelers expressed skepticism about the value of the new subscription, citing their negative experiences with the airline.

Travel expert Simon Calder acknowledges that the subscription may be beneficial for certain passengers, particularly those who frequently travel between the UK and Eastern Europe to visit family. However, he cautions that the offer may not be suitable for everyone and that potential subscribers should carefully consider their travel habits and needs before signing up.

While concerns about the airline’s reliability persist, Calder believes that Wizz Air remains a viable option for budget-conscious travelers, noting that its performance is on par with other low-cost carriers like EasyJet. For those willing to take the risk, the “All You Can Fly” scheme could be a good deal—if they can navigate its limitations.